The Debrief - Sheffield United 1-2 Chelsea

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In this article we look at statistical analysis of Chelsea's victory against Sheffield United in the premier league and highlight the importance of the players throughout the whole spine of the team, this in particular includes two fantastic assists for Timo Werner and resilient effort of rearguard shown by the whole team.

In freezing temperatures up against a side battling for their lives in the premier league, it was a game in which Chelsea had to overcome some obstacles and suffer in some very tough moments. However, goals in each half managed to do the trick as a late rally from Sheffield United was successfully repelled.  

Majestic Matteo in midfield

Throughout the hustle and bustle of the midfield battle in snowy Sheffield, the role played by Matteo Kovacic as both creator and controller was key. 

Kovacic had more time spent in possession than any other player on the pitch (9.4 percent) with his midfield partner Jorginho accounting for a further 8.3 percent , as well as having 121 touches throughout the whole game.

Matteo Kovacic had 121 touches throughout the whole match as shown by his impressive touch map.
Source: Chelsea FC

This meant that Chelsea dominated possession yet again under the management of Thomas Tuchel, recording more than twice as much of the ball as Sheffield United. Despite being superior in possession, Chelsea only had one more attempt on goal than the Blades and also shared the same number of shots on target with both sides registering three.

Chelsea's attacking play was as a result of Kovacic's direct dribbling being a key feature with only Reece James completing more take-ons. Kovacic was also Chelsea's top passer in the game registering 106 this also included 23 passes in the final third.

Werner the difference for Chelsea 

Timo Werner may not have scored in South Yorkshire but the impact he had on Chelsea taking all three points was evident to see.

Werner teed up Mason Mount for Chelsea's opening goal
Source: Chelsea FC

Not only did the German create both goals for Chelsea, his first teeing up Mason Mount for the Blues opener before winning a penalty in the second half which was converted calmly by Jorginho, Werner also claimed the most touches in the box as well the most sprints throughout the game.

The grit and guile of Christensen 

Even though Chelsea conceded their first goal under the management of Thomas Tuchel in somewhat avoidable circumstances, there was certainly a lot to admire about the defending showed by Chelsea with Andreas Christensen right at the heart of keeping Sheffield United at bay.

The 24 year old Dane was deployed in the middle of a back three and enjoyed lots of opportunity to be able to move forward with the ball, but as with an away game at Bramall Lane there was also plenty of grating to be done.

Andreas Christensen excelled in the defence for Chelsea showing both guile and grit
Source: Chelsea FC

Yet Christensen excelled, combining both his guile and grit, winning five out of his six aerial duels in defence, three out of three headed clearances as well as nine ball recoveries. It is therefore no surprise that no team in the league has conceded fewer shots on target ever since Thomas Tuchel's first game as Chelsea boss.

Statistical highlights for Chelsea 

  • Out of Chelsea's nine attempts on goal, two were blocked and four were off target. Chelsea had a total of 8 corners compared to just 1 for Sheffield United however, were unable to make any of them count.
  • Mason Mount's goal was his third goal scored in the past eight games taking him to 10 premier league goals for Chelsea. This makes him the second youngest player to reach this milestone after Arjen Robben.
  • Antonio Rudiger recorded a match high four clearances, three headed clearances as well as 11 ball recoveries
  • One goal conceded in Chelsea's first four games under Thomas Tuchel makes this the best defensive start for a new manager in 12 years.
For more articles on news relating to Chelsea Football Club please visit my twitter account 

Location: Slough, UK

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